Everything You Need to Know Before Coming to Greece

Whether you’re island-hopping in the high season or exploring ancient ruins, here’s your essential guide to transport, planning, safety, and culture for an unforgettable Greek adventure.

Tourists make their way around central Syntagma square in Athens July 24, 2014. REUTERS/Yorgos Karahalis (GREECE – Tags: POLITICS TRAVEL BUSINESS)

Travel Documents & Visas

When traveling to Greece,  your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay.

Visa requirements vary by nationality. Citizens of the EU or Schengen zone do not need a visa to enter Greece. Travelers from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For other nationalities, please check with your local Greek consulate or embassy.

Starting in 2025, non-EU travelers may need ETIAS authorization.

Travel Insurance & Medical Papers

It is recommended that your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, ferry delays, etc. If you’re traveling from an EU country, be sure to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the updated Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).

In case of medical needs, pharmacies are widely available and common; pharmacists can offer basic medical advice. Some pharmacies operate 24/7 for emergency needs.

Check which pharmacies or hospitals are near you and on duty through XO.gr .

Key Over the Counter Medications:

• Depon, Panadol (Paracetamol)
• Nurofen, Algofren (Ibuprofen)
• Xozal, Zirtek (Antihistamines)
• Fenistil (Insect bites)
• Strepsil (Throat Candy)
• Imodium (Gastrointestinal)
• Voltaren (Muscle Pain)
• Almora (Electrolytes)

Athens, Greece, March 14, 2020

In the event of a medical emergency while visiting Greece, tourists have access to both public and private hospitals. Both offer essential medical services.

Public hospitals (like Evangelismos General Hospital or Attikon University Hospital) are part of Greece’s national healthcare system. They are generally well-equipped but can be crowded, and English-speaking staff may be limited, especially in non-urban areas.

Private hospitals, such as Hygeia Hospital, Metropolitan Hospital, or Athens Medical Center, typically offer shorter wait times, more personalized care, and more consistent English-speaking services. However, treatment costs are higher and usually must be paid upfront or claimed through travel insurance.

Health & Emergency Services

• Emergency Number (EU-wide): 112
• Police for Tourists and Foreigners: 1571 (English-speaking, French, German, Greek) 
• Police: 100
• Ambulance: 166
• Fire: 199

 Airports & Arrival Tips

In addition to the main Greek airport, the Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) , Greece has several other airports. On the mainland, other airports includes that of Thessaloniki Airport which serves northern Greece. On the islands, major airports include Heraklion (Crete), Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, and others, offering both domestic and international connections.

For airport transfers, one convenient option is the Athens Metro Line 3 (Blue Line), which connects Athens International Airport to key city locations. Major stops along this line include Syntagma Square (central Athens) and Piraeus (the main port for ferry connections).

Metro tickets to and from the airport are priced higher than regular metro fares. Most standard tickets range between €2–€5, but there are also special ticket bundles available for tourists that offer better value for multiple rides.

For detailed information on metro lines, ticket options, and current prices, visit the official Athens public transport website.

Athens Metro Station. EUROKINISSI ΠΑΝΑΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ ΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ

Taxis from Athens International Airport to the city center typically ranging from €38 to €54, depending on the time of day. All taxi drivers are now required to accept card payments.

You’ll recognize Athens taxis by their yellow color, and you can easily book one using apps like Beat (Greece’s version of Uber) or FreeNow. Fares are based on a base rate plus distance, with double fare applied after midnight.

Additionally, Express Buses run 24/7 from the airport to key locations such as Syntagma Square, offering a reliable and affordable alternative.

REUTERS/Yiorgos Karahalis (GREECE – Tags: POLITICS CIVIL UNREST BUSINESS TRANSPORT)

However, mainland Greece offers stunning landscapes and numerous nearby destinations, making it ideal for exploring by car. Renting a vehicle is highly recommended for a more flexible and immersive travel experience. For example, rental companies like Alamo, Yours Car Rental, and Hertz; and platforms such as Booking.com are available, and you’ll also find several rental options conveniently located at the airport.

Public Transport

Keep in mind that valid tickets are required for all forms of public transportation in Greece. Additionally, it’s wise to stay informed about nationwide strikes, which can affect metro, bus, and ferry schedules. Be extra cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded stations and vehicles.

The metro runs approximately from 5:30am-12:30 am, and trains come in 3-10 minutes intervals. Yet, the Athens metro, tram, and select bus routes will operate 24 hours a day under a pilot program launching on Saturday, July 5.

Measures to prevent and treat COVID-19 pandemic at Syntagma Metro Station during the first day of lifting lockdown measures after 42 days of quarantine, in Athens, on May 4, 2020

Athens has a well-connected public transportation system that includes three metro lines—Green, Blue, and Red—with English signage and convenient transfer points between lines, making it easy to navigate through most of the city.

The suburban railway extends to nearby towns and suburbs, while buses and trolleys offer a budget-friendly and extensive network within the city. However, note that buses may not always run on schedule; estimated arrival times are usually shown on digital displays at the stops. Also, many buses do not have air conditioning, especially in older vehicles.

Trams run from central Athens to the coastal suburbs, offering a scenic route to the seaside. For travel beyond Athens, intercity KTEL buses connect the capital with most mainland destinations and several islands via ferry connections.

Athens, Greece, Oct.15, 2019

Ferries & Boats

The most popular routes include those of Piraeus to Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Paros, Naxos

Types of ferries:

• Regular ferries (cheaper, slower, more frequent)
• High-speed hydrofoils (more expensive, quicker)
• Make sure to check smaller ports between destinations to get better deals in prices

People travel to the Greek islands from the port of Piraeus, on July 3, 2022

Main Ports:

• • Port of Piraeus: Greece’s largest and busiest port; Ferries to Cyclades, Dodecanese, Crete, Saronic Gulf islands Connected to Athens via metro
  • Port of Rafina: Secondary port;  Ferries mainly to Andros, Tinos, Mykonos, Evia ; Smaller and faster than Piraeus for certain islands
  • Port of Lavrio: Ferries to Kea, Kythnos, and other Cyclades islands
  • Port of Thessaloniki: Major commercial and passenger port;  Ferries (seasonal) to North Aegean islands (Lesvos, Lemnos), cruise ships
  • Port of Patras : Incase you want a gateway to Italy and Western Europe, the port offers international ferries to Italy (Ancona, Bari, Brindisi), and Ionian Islands
  • Port of Volos: Smaller regional port; Ferries to Sporades islands (Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos)

Be sure to arrive at the ferry terminal well in advance—especially if you’re traveling with a car—as boarding can take time. Also, keep in mind that ferry interiors are often heavily air-conditioned, so bringing a jacket is a smart idea, even in summer.

Weather & Seasons

Greece’s high season runs from July to August, when the weather is hot and popular destinations are crowded. For a more comfortable experience with milder temperatures and fewer tourists, the best times to visit are May to June and September to October.

Winter in Greece is much quieter and cooler, making it an ideal season for exploring Athens and the mainland, where cultural sites and local life can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.

Please note that Greece experiences a significant presence of mosquitoes during the summer months. So pack some bug spray and be ready to share your vacation with these tiny (and very persistent) locals.

Octopus,Drying,In,The,Sun,Europe,Greece,Santorini,And,Light

During the summer months, Greece is prone to wildfires due to high temperatures and dry conditions. If you are near an affected area, you may receive an emergency alert from 112, providing evacuation instructions or specific safety guidelines. Stay calm, follow official directions, and remain mindful of the heat throughout your visit.

Firefighters try to extinguish a fire in the village of Avgaria, on the island of Evia, Greece, August 10, 2021. REUTERS/Stelios Misinas

Outdoor activities such as hiking  should always be planned with consideration with high temperatures and weather conditions.

Cultural Etiquette & Behavior

When visiting churches and monasteries in Greece, it’s important to dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.

While smoking is officially banned in indoor public places, enforcement can be inconsistent, and it’s not uncommon to see people smoking indoors in some establishments.

Wi‑Fi & Phone Access

Wi‑Fi is widely available in Greece, especially in hotels, cafés, and many public areas, making it easy to stay connected.

If you prefer mobile data, you can purchase a local SIM card from providers like Cosmote, Vodafone, or WIND—just remember to bring your passport for registration.

To avoid roaming charges, most travelers opt to make calls via apps like WhatsApp or Viber, which work well over Wi‑Fi or local data.

Dining & Tipping Customs

The currency in Greece is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas; however, cash is often preferred in smaller towns and many island shops.

ATMs are readily available in cities and at ports, but it’s best to avoid independent machines that may charge higher fees.

Must-try dishes: Moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, tiropita, loukoumades, and ask for a variety of Greek dips.

Dining hours in Greece typically see lunch served between 2 PM and 4 PM, while dinner usually starts around 8 PM. In smaller towns outside of Athens and urban cities, many shops and restaurants close for a midday break from 2 PM to 5 PM before reopening in the evening.

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. It’s common to round up the bill or leave a 5–10% tip at restaurants as a gesture of gratitude.

️ Basic Greek Phrases

Hello: Kaliméra (morning), Kalispéra (evening)

Please: Parakaló

Thank you: Efcharistó

Yes/No: Né / Óchi

How much does it cost?: Poso Kanei?

Card/Cash: Karta / Metrita

Help: Voithia

 Extras: Shopping, Cinemas & Entertainment

Start of the summer sales, Athens, July 11, 2022

Shopping areas: Ermou Street (Athens), Golden Hall, Athens Metro Mall, The Mall of Athens, Monastiraki Flea Market

Cinemas: Many outdoor (open-air) cinemas operate in summer

Entertainment:

• Ancient theaters (Epidaurus, Herodion)
• Beach bars and rooftop terraces
• Music festivals, especially June–August
• Laiki (Farmer’s Market) and fish markets

ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ/ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ/ΕΥΗ ΦΥΛΑΚΤΟΥ

• • 

    ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ/ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ/ΣΥΜΕΛΑ ΠΑΝΤΖΑΡΤΖΗ

Crime

Greece is generally a safe country for travelers, but like many popular tourist destinations, petty crime—especially pickpocketing—can occur, particularly in busy areas.

Visitors to Greece, particularly in urban centers like Athens and Thessaloniki, may occasionally encounter individuals asking for money or offering small items or services in exchange for donations. This type of street solicitation is relatively common in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as tourist sites, metro stations, and public squares.

Official opening of the reconstructed Omonoia Square in Athens, Greece on May 14, 2020.

While most encounters are non-aggressive, travelers are advised to remain polite but cautious. A respectful “No, thank you” (“ochi efxaristo” in Greek) is typically sufficient. As with any major tourist destination, it is also wise to remain aware of your personal belongings in crowded spaces, where pickpocketing may occur.

Be extra cautious in public transportation hubs (metro lines, especially in Athens), crowded attractions and street markets.

Common scams include distraction tactics (someone asking for help or directions); Fake petitions or friendship bracelets.

Tourists in the historic center of Athens, May 25, 2022.

Make sure to have your wallets, phones and personal items close to you, and avoid placing valuables on tables in outdoor restaurants.

While Athens is generally safe and welcoming, visitors should be aware that some metro stations—such as Omonoia—can occasionally attract individuals struggling with substance abuse. These individuals are often seen near the station entrances or in the surrounding area. They are typically non-aggressive and pose no direct threat, but it’s advisable to remain alert, especially at night.

Other neighborhoods that are more prone to petty crime in Athens, is Victoria, Monastiraki, and Colonos.

Athens, Greece, Oct.15, 2019

Traffic lights are… flexible

Driving in Greece can be both beautiful and a bit chaotic—especially if you’re not used to local habits. Greek drivers are known for their… let’s say spirited style behind the wheel.

Athens, Greece – Mar 29, 2016: Busy lanes with yellow taxis and cars on the Ploutarchou avenue in central Athens with Cosmote mobile operator store in background traffic jam driving in Greece

You should for sure expect spontaneity as locals may change lanes quickly, hesitate at intersections, or make last-minute decisions. Even when you have a green light, be that as a pedestrian or a driver, it’s wise to glance left, right—and maybe left again—before proceeding as it’s not uncommon for drivers to speed up at yellow (orange) lights instead of slowing down—so stay alert.

Jaywalking is highly common as pedestrians often cross wherever they please, even mid-traffic.

Greeks are known for their road rage, so expect frequent honking, ‘colorful’ language and profane hand gestures.

Deciding where to stay in Athens 

1. 1. • Plaka: Historic and charming
      • Monastiraki, Gazi: Bustling, great for markets and nightlife
      • Kolonaki: Upscale and stylish
      • Koukaki: Calm, close to Acropolis
      • Thiseio: Beautiful Coffee Shops
      • Alimos to Vouliagmeni: Be close to the Athens coastal lux, and beautiful beaches (more expensive areas)
      • Syntagma: stay at the core of Athens
      • Other areas: Ilisia, Kallithea, Mets

Greece is a country full of history, beauty, and warm hospitality. With a little preparation and awareness, your trip can be smooth, safe, and truly unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, or dining in a lively taverna—embrace the experience, travel smart, and enjoy everything our country has to offer.